Moscow, March 11 (QNA) - Russia's President Vladimir Putin and Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev have called for an immediate halt to military operations in the Middle East during a phone conversation on Wednesday, according to official reports.

The two leaders discussed the current situation in the Middle East and emphasized the need to resolve the conflict through political and diplomatic means rather than continued fighting.

In their call, Putin and Aliyev exchanged views on the escalating regional tensions and stressed the importance of efforts aimed at de-escalation. Both leaders urged all parties involved to prioritize dialogue and negotiations.

The Kremlin said the conversation also covered bilateral relations between Russia and Azerbaijan. The presidents reviewed ways to strengthen cooperation in various fields in line with the principles of their strategic partnership and alliance.

Russia and Azerbaijan maintain close political and economic ties, and the leaders regularly hold discussions on regional security issues. (QNA)